Bolivian Clowns Protest Education Decree Threatening Their Livelihoods

On Monday, March 30, 2026, dozens of professional clowns demonstrated in La Paz, Bolivia, against a government decree that restricts extracurricular activities in schools. The protesters, wearing traditional face paint and red noses, gathered outside the Ministry of Education to oppose the mandate issued in February, which requires schools to maintain 200 instructional days annually, effectively prohibiting celebrations during regular school hours where clowns are typically hired. Wilder Ramírez, a union leader known as Zapallito, stated that the policy would economically impact all workers who entertain children, emphasizing that children need laughter. The clowns questioned whether Bolivia's Education Minister had experienced a proper childhood. These performers are commonly employed for school events like Children's Day, celebrated on April 12. The decree, enacted under recently elected President Rodrigo Paz, allows celebrations only on weekends voluntarily. Government officials indicated they would consider the clowns' feedback for the 2027 school year, but protesters remained unconvinced. Elías Gutiérrez, speaking for the Confederation of Artisanal Workers of Bolivia, warned that the decree would reduce income amid the country's severe economic crisis, exacerbated by declining natural gas revenues and scarce U.S. dollars. The protest also included tailors who create costumes for clowns and children's events, as well as photographers who cover school festivities. Marching through central La Paz, the group used whistles and small fireworks, with one clown holding a sign accusing the government of eliminating smiles and jobs. The demonstration highlights broader economic struggles in Bolivia, affecting cultural workers and artisans.